Fall is nearly upon us, with harvest season well underway and the temperatures creeping lower. It won’t be long before the leaves start changing colors. North Dakota is known to be a fairly tree-lacking state, even nicknamed the “lone tree state” back in the days of the settlers. You might be tempted to head to other places to see pretty fall foliage, but don’t be too hasty! ND does, in fact, have forests of its own, and plenty of gorgeous places to experience the colors of fall. One of the best spots for leaf-peeping in North Dakota is in the Turtle Mountains of the north.

Unknowing people may glance at a photo like this and assume it's somewhere in New England, with the dense, colorful trees and beautiful lake. In fact, this photo was taken just outside of Bottineau, North Dakota in the Turtle Mountains.
Gary Eslinger/USWFS/Flickr
Though the "mountains" part of the name may be a bit of a stretch, the hilly and wetlands-filled area by the Canadian border is worth visiting.
NDPRD/Flickr
The forests in this area are perfect for viewing fall foliage, turning into a variety of golds, reds, and oranges during September and October.
NDPRD/Flickr

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The many lakes and ponds in the area just add to the beauty, reflecting the colors in postcard-worthy scenes.
NDPRD/Flickr
The best places to visit in the area for fall foliage are Lake Metigoshe State Park for trails and camping, Bottineau or Dunseith for small-town activities, the International Peace Garden, the Turtle Mountain State Forest, and more.
NDPRD/Flickr
You'll find vividly colorful beauty around every turn. Even if you just take a leisurely drive through and don't stop anywhere, it'll still give you a dazzling show.
NDPRD/Flickr
If you want to experience leaf-peeping in North Dakota, put this destination at the top of your list!
NDPRD/Flickr

There is more than what we listed to visit in the Turtle Mountains, so if you plan on visiting, be sure to check out the Bottineau County website. It has local attractions, lists of great restaurants, and more information.

Where are your favorite fall destinations? The Turtle Mountains aren’t the only spot in the state to enjoy the colorful season. Check out our ND Fall Foliage Road Trip for a convenient route that’ll take you through here and many more stops.

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Turtle Mountains, North Rolette, ND 58329, USA